Henrik Stenson’s Return to DP World Tour in 2026
The LIV golf saga continues. Henrik Stenson’s journey back to the DP World Tour. In a surprising turn of events, former Open Champion Henrik Stenson is planning a comeback to the DP World Tour in 2026 following his controversial stint with the LIIV Golf League. This story is a testament to the twists and turns of professional sports, and it’s about to get even more intriguing. Stenson, a 49-year-old Swedish golfing legend, has agreed to pay fines exceeding1 million pounds to the European circuit, as reported by Bunker. This move comes after he participated in conflicting LIIV events, which led to his removal as Europe’s RDER Cup captain for the 2023 match in Rome. But here’s where it gets controversial. Stenson was one of the first players to join the Saudi back tour, a decision that has since caused quite a stir. After a disappointing LIIV campaign this year, Stenson found himself in the tour’s drop zone. He was overtaken by England’s Ian Palter in the final individual event leading to his relegation. The 56 player LIIV circuit is implementing a relegation system as it aims to gain accreditation from the official world golf ranking which would allow its players to qualify for the prestigious major championships. Stenson seems to be opting for a return to his roots on the DP World Tour next season rather than attempting to regain his spot on the main LIIV circuit. It’s a strategic move and one that hints at the complexities of these golfing circuits. Professional sports are a roller coaster, Stenson said. You have your highs and lows, and you learn to navigate them. Stenson resigned from the DP World Tour in 2023, joining a group of players including Pala, Garcia, Westwood, and Bland, who were sanctioned for breaking rules when they joined LIIV. The tour imposed bans and hefty fines for each regulation breach up to £100,000 per tournament. In a twist, England’s Lorie Caner has become the first player to regain his eligibility on the PGA Tour after his LIIV defection. His impressive season on the DP World Tour secured him a second place finish in the PGA Tour eligibility rankings via the race to Dubai. So, what does this all mean for the future of golf? And what are your thoughts on Stenson’s journey? The floor is open for discussion. Do you think he made the right choice? Should players be allowed to move freely between tours? Let us know in the comments.
Former Open champion Henrik Stenson is set to return to the DP World Tour in 2026 after his relegation from the LIV Golf League. Stenson, who won the Claret Jug in 2016, plans to rejoin the European-based circuit rather than attempt a comeback on the main LIV circuit. The Swede settled fines of over £1m with the DP World Tour for playing in conflicting LIV events. Stenson’s return to the DP World Tour marks a significant moment in golf, with the tour aiming to regain its place as one of the sport’s premier circuits.
